Bridgewater police report surge in area burglaries

Sunday

Aug 31, 2008 at 12:01 AMAug 31, 2008 at 12:08 AM

Theresa Knapp Enos

There has been a high concentration of burglaries in the area near Oak and High Streets over the last six weeks, say Bridgewater police, as well as increase in break-ins in surrounding East Bridgewater and West Bridgewater.

Homes, sheds and cars are being targeted in the Bridgewaters.

Between Bridgewater, East Bridgewater and West Bridgewater (whose police departments are working together to solve this rash of crime), there have been 40 break-ins since July 8, says detective Sgt. Scott Allen of East Bridgewater who has mapped the break-ins, the majority of which are in Bridgewater.

According to the map, Bridgewater house breaks total 25 as of Friday, and include eight on Oak Street, seven on (or immediately off) High Street, three on Wall Street, and others scattered throughout town.

The break-ins occur at various times during the day and early evening (between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m.), with some at night which police say is unusual in Bridgewater, where most breaks are during daylight hours. Also, some attempts have been unsuccessful and some have been made when residents are home.

Police have information that may lead to the capture of the suspects  there could be more than one based on information police are investigating  who are using aggressive means of entry at mostly back and side doors, or anything that is open.

Theyre using more forced entry type methods: Smashing windows, forcing open a screen, and prying doors, says Lt. Christopher Delmonte of the Bridgewater Police Department, noting they have also pushed in air conditioners to get into homes.

One Oak Street victim (who asked that her name not be used) whose air conditioner was pushed in for access, had the jewelry of her late grandmother and mother  who recently died  stolen earlier this week. She has not been able to recover the items at local pawn shops nor does she not have photos of the items. The family urges residents to document and photograph their belongings, and be aware that someone may be watching their routine with plans to break in.

Residents are advised to lock all windows and doors, secure air conditioners from the inside, and call police when they notice any suspicious activity.

We recommend people secure their property, be aware of their surroundings, and recognize and call on suspicious vehicles (driving or idling) in the neighborhood, said Delmonte.

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